A 5.9-magnitude earthquake shook several parts of Pakistan on Thursday. Tremors were felt in Islamabad, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, forcing people to rush out of homes and buildings in panic.
According to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre, the quake originated in Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush region at a depth of 111 kilometres.
Major cities and districts, including Peshawar, Abbottabad, Malakand, Mardan, Hangu, Nowshera, Battagram, Swat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Buner, Attock, Mianwali, and Gujranwala, also felt the jolts.
Eyewitnesses said many people recited prayers as they evacuated buildings. Rescue officials confirmed there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Pakistan lies near the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates, making earthquakes common, especially in the northern region. Experts continue to warn that the area is prone to frequent tremors.
Read: Afghanistan Earthquake Death Toll Surges to Over 2,200
The Hindu Kush mountains are considered a seismic hotspot. On Sunday, the same region was the epicenter of a 6.0-magnitude earthquake in eastern Afghanistan. That quake killed over 2,200 people.
On September 4, 2025, Pakistan delivered relief supplies to the Torkham border in response to the Afghan quake. Acting on orders from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Federal Minister Engineer Amir Muqam handed over food, medicines, and other essentials.
The effort highlights Pakistan’s solidarity with its neighbor during times of crisis. The earthquake serves as a reminder of Pakistan’s vulnerability to seismic events. Authorities stress that monitoring and disaster preparedness are vital for reducing risks in the future.
